Debswana ventures into Mutton production

In the wake of diamond extinction in Jwaneng mine, Debswana plans to diversify mining business into lucrative mutton production by empowering Batswana farmers to venture into the business.

Briefing the DRC delegates and media on Thursday, Jwaneng Mine Finance Manager, Naiko Ralebala revealed that beyond diamonds, Debswana has come up with an initiative to empower residents to venture into mutton production. “We know that diamonds will finish at one point. So what do we do for the economy? We have identified that Jwaneng area has a huge potential for small stock, especially the sheep. And even the Ministry of Agriculture has confirmed that this is an area where we can produce a lot of mutton.”

She explained to the Business Trends that they are aware of the huge market in Asia that Botswana could take advantage of. “We are taking Batswana to what they already know and harnessing them with skills to be able to run successful businesses.”

Debswana Corporate Affairs manager, Charity Thite told the Business Trends that the company seeks to transform their zone of influence into a small stock hub in alignment with the national food security Agenda while ensuring that life is brilliant for people in the community.

She said plans are under development for training and related activities. “There is still critical data to be collected to inform capacity building initiatives across the value chain, small scale farmers and commercial farmers. The project investment will be determined after the completion of the feasibility studies.”

She highlighted that Debswana seeks to develop an alternative livelihood source during mining to ensure a sustainable and resilient post mining community.